The Future of Python Dependencies Management

Introduction

• Pipenv is presented as the future of Python dependency management, offering a streamlined approach compared to traditional methods like pip and virtualenv.

History and Challenges of Python Packaging

• Initial Problems:

  • PyPi (formerly "The Cheeseshop") was just an index, not a comprehensive package host.
  • Packages were often hosted externally, and PyPi ran on a single server.
  • Manual processes and global installations led to poor user experiences.

• Evolution:

  • Pip replaced easy_install as the primary package manager.
  • Virtualenv became a standard for creating isolated environments.
  • Requirements.txt files were introduced to track dependencies.

• Challenges with Existing Tools:

  • Virtualenv had a steep learning curve and was difficult for newcomers.
  • Requirements.txt files often had an impedance mismatch between what was installed and what was needed, leading to non-deterministic builds.

The Problem with Current Practices

• Virtualenv Downsides:

  • Difficult abstraction for beginners.
  • Manual and unnatural to use without additional tools like virtualenv-wrapper.

• Requirements.txt Issues:

  • Two types of dependency files are needed:
    • One for unpinned dependencies (e.g., "Flask").
    • One for pinned, all-inclusive dependencies.

• No Lockfile:

  • Python lacked a lockfile for deterministic dependency management, unlike other communities (e.g., Node.js, PHP).

The Solution: Pipfile and Pipenv

• Pipfile:

  • A new standard designed to replace requirements.txt.
  • Pipfile is a TOML file that is easy to read and write.
  • It includes two sections: [packages] for production and [dev-packages] for development dependencies.

• Pipfile.lock:

  • A machine-readable JSON file that contains pinned dependencies and acceptable hashes for each release, ensuring deterministic builds.

• Challenges with Pipfile:

  • Pipfile is not yet integrated into pip, and full integration may take time due to resource constraints.

Pipenv: The Recommended Tool

• Pipenv Features:

  • Officially recommended by Python.org.
  • Automates virtualenv management and uses Pipfile/Pipfile.lock for dependency management.
  • Ensures deterministic builds and performs hash check verification during installation.

• User Testimonials:

  • Jannis Leidel (former pip maintainer) praises Pipenv for replacing manual virtualenv and pip calls.
  • Justin Myles Holmes commends Pipenv for being an abstraction that engages the mind, not just the filesystem.

Conclusion

• Pipenv is portrayed as a significant advancement in Python dependency management, offering a more intuitive and deterministic approach compared to traditional methods.